A fire at a residential building in Vivek Vihar, New Delhi, killed nine people, including a toddler, in the early hours of Sunday, 3 May. Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra visited the site and called the incident "very unfortunate", confirming that the injured are currently in stable condition.

How the Fire Unfolded

The blaze reportedly broke out on the second floor of premises No. B-13, Vivek Vihar Phase I, with the first reports of a spark emerging between 3:15 and 3:30 a.m. Upon receiving information at around 4 a.m., Delhi Police personnel — including the Vivek Vihar SHO and ACP — along with the fire brigade and a crime team, rushed to the spot. A total of 14 fire engines were dispatched to the scene.

The fire was brought under control by 6 a.m., according to officials. Rescue teams managed to pull out 15 persons from the burning structure during active operations. Neighbours also reportedly assisted in the evacuation efforts.

Casualties and Rescue Operations

According to officials, nine people — including a toddler — lost their lives in the blaze. Speaking to IANS, Minister Malhotra stated, "Unfortunately, nine people lost their lives. The rescue officials saved 28 people. The neighbours also helped. The injured are receiving treatment, and their condition is currently stable."

Of the 15 persons rescued from the building, two sustained minor injuries and were shifted to Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital for medical treatment. Malhotra confirmed that the condition of all hospitalised individuals is currently stable.

What the Minister Said

Minister of State Harsh Malhotra arrived at the site to personally inspect the rescue and relief operations. Addressing the media, he said, "The incident is very unfortunate. It is being reported that the fire broke out due to a spark between 3:15 and 3:30 a.m. As soon as the information was received, the fire brigade and Delhi Police reached the spot."

This comes amid recurring concerns over fire safety compliance in densely populated residential areas of Delhi, where unauthorised constructions and inadequate fire exits have been flagged repeatedly by civic authorities.

Cause of Fire and Ongoing Investigation

Officials confirmed that the exact cause of the fire is not yet known. Further enquiry and proceedings at the spot are in progress. A crime team has been deployed and a detailed investigation is underway. Additional details are awaited from authorities.

As investigators continue to piece together the sequence of events, attention will likely turn to the building's compliance with fire safety norms — a question that has followed multiple such tragedies in the capital in recent years.